On 29-30 January 2024, the Embassy of Canada through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives (CFLI) paid a monitoring visit for the pilot project initiated by Oceanus Conservation – Prioritizing Conservation Efforts: Mapping Biodiversity Hotspots in Marine Ecosystems in Busuanga Island, Palawan.

The two-day event consisted of a presentation of the survey results to the local government officials, especially to the Municipal Mayor Beth Cervantes, and to selected partner communities. The presentation emphasized on finding endangered and threatened species, and the current status of marine resources such as mangroves, seagrass, corals, and reef fish. This event was also an opportunity for the community to express their needs and challenges in their respective areas.

The presentation highlighted the sightings of endangered and threatened species, and the current status of the marine resources such as the mangroves, seagrass, corals, and reef fish. Project partners were allowed to express their needs and challenges in implementing conservation measures, among others. 

Mr. Peter Wright, the Second Secretary – Political, emphasized that the key to a successful and sustainable conservation effort is through the genuine support of the local government. He also stated that this pilot project could be a model for other areas in the country.

Hon. Beth Cervantes was also grateful for this initiative, as the updated data would help them develop projects or programs to conserve these natural marine resources.